Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Buena Vista, Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa stands as a testament to the grandeur and charm of America’s first vacation destination in upstate New York – Saratoga Springs. This Victorian-style Disney Vacation Club resort captures the essence of the 1800s retreat, where health, history, and horses converged to create an unforgettable escape. Disney’s Saratoga Springs is a Walt Disney World Deluxe Villa Resort, and features all the amenities of the Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort Summary

• Victorian-style Disney Vacation Club resort inspired by historic Saratoga Springs, New York, featuring five distinct sections (The Springs, Paddock, Congress Park, Carousel, Grandstand) across 65 acres
• Diverse accommodation options ranging from 355 sq ft Deluxe Studios to 2,113 sq ft Grand Villas, plus unique elevated Treehouse Villas
• Six pools including two feature pools (High Rock Spring Pool and Paddock Pool) and three leisure pools, each with whirlpool spas
• Multiple transportation options: dedicated bus service to parks, boat service and walking paths to Disney Springs, internal resort shuttle system
• Comprehensive amenities including full-service spa, championship golf course, multiple dining options (The Turf Club, Artist’s Palette, pool bars), arcade, and community hall

The Carriage House and Main Lobby

The heart of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort lies in its elegant Carriage House, which serves as the main building and check-in area. This stately Victorian-style structure welcomes guests with its signature green and white exterior, wraparound porches, and ornate architectural details that echo the sophistication of 19th-century Saratoga Springs, New York.

The Grand Lobby

The lobby immediately transports visitors to a bygone era with its soaring ceilings, crystal chandeliers, and rich wood accents. Multiple seating areas feature plush furniture in jewel tones, complemented by equestrian-themed artwork and vintage racing photographs. The centerpiece is a magnificent model of the historic Saratoga Springs racetrack, complete with miniature horses and period details.

Main Building Amenities

The Carriage House serves as the resort’s central hub, housing essential services and dining venues. Upon entering, guests will find the front desk and guest services area, alongside a dedicated DVC Member Services desk for vacation club members. The building encompasses The Artist’s Palette marketplace and quick-service restaurant, as well as the more upscale Turf Club Bar and Grill. Golf enthusiasts can visit the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course pro shop, while families might enjoy the arcade and community hall for entertainment. Practical amenities include package pickup and bell services, plus a convenient resort airline check-in counter. The building’s charm extends outdoors with its signature wrap-around porches, where guests can relax in rocking chairs while taking in views of the High Rock Spring Pool area and the resort’s meticulously maintained gardens.

A Journey Through Time and Design

When Disney Imagineers conceptualized Saratoga Springs Resort, they drew inspiration from the historic New York destination known for its natural springs, horse racing, and sophisticated architecture. Opening its doors in 2004, the resort sprawls across 65 acres, featuring pastel-colored, Victorian-style buildings that transport guests to a bygone era of elegant leisure.

The resort’s design pays homage to its namesake through thoughtful details: wrought-iron railings, wooden porches, and decorative touches that echo the heyday of Saratoga Springs, New York. Racing motifs and equestrian themes are artfully woven throughout the property, from the horse racing memorabilia in common areas to the subtle architectural nods in room designs.

Saratoga Springs Accommodations

Saratoga Springs offers some of the most diverse accommodation options in Walt Disney World, with five distinct neighborhood sections:

The Springs

Closest to the main lobby and dining options, The Springs provides convenient access to primary amenities. These rooms offer views of the village green, fountain, or Lake Buena Vista.

The Paddock

Centered around its own feature pool, The Paddock delivers a perfect balance of amenities and tranquility. Many rooms overlook the serene lake or meticulously maintained gardens.

Congress Park

Popular among guests seeking proximity to Disney Springs, Congress Park rooms feature views of the shopping and entertainment district across the water, with some offering stunning nighttime vistas of the complex.

The Carousel

This serene section showcases charming carousel horse motifs and provides a quieter atmosphere, perfect for guests seeking a more relaxed environment.

The Grandstand

The first bus stop on resort routes, The Grandstand offers convenience for park-hoppers while maintaining the sporting elegance theme through its golf-course views and racing-inspired décor.

Villa Types and Details

Deluxe Studios (sleeps up to 4)

• 355 square feet
• One queen-size bed and one queen-size sleeper sofa
• Kitchenette with microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker, and toaster
• Private balcony or porch
• Full bathroom with tub/shower combination
• Available views: Standard, Preferred, or Gardens

One-Bedroom Villas (sleeps up to 4)

• 714 square feet
• Master bedroom with king-size bed
• Queen-size sleeper sofa in living room
• Full kitchen with full-size appliances
• Washer and dryer
• Separate living and dining areas
• Two full bathrooms
• Private balcony or porch
• Available views: Standard, Preferred (Congress Park/Springs), or Water

Two-Bedroom Villas (sleeps up to 8)

• 1,070 square feet
• Master bedroom with king-size bed
• Second bedroom with two queen beds
• Queen-size sleeper sofa in living room
• Full kitchen with full-size appliances
• Washer and dryer
• Separate living and dining areas
• Three full bathrooms
• Two private balconies or porches
• Available views: Standard, Preferred (Congress Park/Springs), or Water
• Can be configured as a “lock-off” by combining a one-bedroom villa with a deluxe studio

Three-Bedroom Grand Villas (sleeps up to 12)

• 2,113 square feet
• Two-story floor plan
• Master bedroom with king-size bed
• Two additional bedrooms each with two queen-size beds
• Queen-size sleeper sofa in living room
• Dining room with formal dining table
• Full kitchen with premium appliances
• Washer and dryer
• Four full bathrooms
• Multiple private balconies
• Available views: Water or Disney Springs
• Located exclusively in Congress Park and The Springs sections

Treehouse Villas (sleeps up to 9)

• 1,074 square feet
• Elevated 10 feet off the ground
• Unique octagonal design
• Master bedroom with queen-size bed
• Second bedroom with queen-size bed
• Third bedroom with bunk bed and twin bed
• Queen-size sleeper sofa in living room
• Full kitchen with full-size appliances
• Washer and dryer
• Two full bathrooms
• Large deck with seating
• Secluded forest location along Sassagoula River
• Private parking space beneath each villa

The Treehouse Villas at Saratoga Springs offer a unique accommodation experience within Walt Disney World. Elevated 10 feet off the ground and featuring an octagonal design, these 1,074-square-foot standalone villas are nestled along the Sassagoula River in a secluded forest setting. Each villa sleeps up to nine guests with three bedrooms (one queen bed, one queen bed, and a bunk bed with additional twin), plus a queen sleeper sofa in the living room. The villas feature modern amenities including a full kitchen, two bathrooms, washer/dryer, and a large private deck with seating. Each treehouse includes its own ground-level parking space beneath the elevated structure.

These villas were originally built in 1975 as part of the Lake Buena Vista Community and were completely rebuilt in 2009 for Disney Vacation Club members, though they’re available to all resort guests based on availability. Their location provides a secluded forest experience while maintaining accessibility to resort amenities via internal buses and walking paths.

Saratoga Springs Room Views

Standard Views

• Available in all sections
• May include parking areas, service areas, or woodland views
• Generally located on lower floors or interior buildings

Preferred Views

• Located in The Springs and Congress Park
• Overlook the central village green, fountains, or courtyards
• Provide easy access to main amenities
• Higher floors offer partial Disney Springs views

Water Views

• Available in Congress Park, The Springs, and The Paddock
• Overlook Lake Buena Vista, fountain features, or the Sassagoula River
• Congress Park rooms offer direct Disney Springs views
• The Paddock rooms feature lake and fountain views

Garden Views

• Available in all sections
• Overlook landscaped areas, golf course, or natural woodlands
• Popular in The Carousel and Grandstand sections
• Some rooms feature views of the walking paths and water features

Saratoga Springs Recreation and Leisure

High Rock Spring Pool

The main feature pool creates a natural springs atmosphere with cascading waterfalls, zero-entry access, and a 128-foot-long waterslide. The adjacent children’s water play area, designed to resemble a water tower playground, provides endless entertainment for younger guests.

The Paddock Pool

This zero-entry pool features a 146-foot waterslide, horseshoe-shaped hot tub, and a dedicated children’s play area. The Paddock Grill nearby offers convenient refreshments and light meals.

Three Leisure Pools

Located in Congress Park, The Grandstand, and The Carousel areas, these quieter pools provide peaceful retreats for relaxation and gentle exercise, without water slides, and the noise that comes with them. Each leisure pool includes its own whirlpool spa that accommodates 10-12 guests and maintains a temperature of approximately 102°F. The Congress Park hot tub offers views of Disney Springs across the water, while The Grandstand’s spa overlooks the golf course, and The Carousel’s spa is nestled in privacy-providing landscaping. Each spa features powerful jets and seating at multiple depths. The Grandstand pool area also includes a small splash area for children.

Additional Whirlpool Spas

The resort’s main pool areas feature larger hot tubs. At High Rock Spring Pool, guests will find a wheelchair-accessible spa that accommodates up to 15 people. The Paddock Pool boasts a distinctive horseshoe-shaped spa with capacity for 20 guests, making it the resort’s largest. All whirlpool spas operate from 7:00 AM to midnight, weather permitting.

The Spa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort

The full-service spa at Saratoga Springs pays homage to the healing tradition of its New York namesake’s mineral springs. Located near the Carriage House, this 6,000-square-foot facility offers a comprehensive array of treatments in a serene Victorian-inspired setting. Spa guests enter through an elegant glass-roofed conservatory that serves as a transition space from the resort’s activity to the calm within.

The facility features ten treatment rooms, including two couples’ rooms for shared experiences. The spa’s signature treatment, the Saratoga Springs Signature Massage, incorporates mineral-enriched oils and warm stone therapy, reflecting the therapeutic heritage of the original Saratoga Springs. Other specialized services include the Springs Renewal Facial, which uses natural spring water-based products, and the Mineral Body Wrap, designed to detoxify and rejuvenate.

Health club facilities adjacent to the spa include state-of-the-art cardiovascular equipment, free weights, and weight machines. The fitness center offers daily fitness classes, personal training sessions, and wellness consultations. Separate men’s and women’s locker rooms feature aromatherapy steam rooms, experiential showers with multiple water settings, and heated stone loungers for pre or post-treatment relaxation.

For nail care, the spa’s dedicated salon area offers both express services and luxurious signature manicures and pedicures. The Saratoga Signature Pedicure includes a mineral soak and hot stone massage, while incorporating design elements inspired by the resort’s racing heritage.

A private outdoor relaxation garden provides a peaceful retreat featuring a hot tub, meditation area, and comfortable loungers surrounded by lush landscaping. Spa guests receive complimentary access to all facilities on the day of their scheduled treatment, including the fitness center, steam rooms, and relaxation areas.

Golf and Recreation

Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course

The Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, winding through Saratoga Springs Resort and Disney’s Old Key West Resort, is an 18-hole championship course designed by Joe Lee. Opened in 1972 and rated four stars by Golf Digest, it features elevated bunkered greens, challenging water hazards, and mature pine and cypress trees. The par-72 course stretches 6,819 yards from the championship tees with four sets of tees to accommodate different skill levels.

Notable holes include the signature par-3 seventh hole with its island green, and the challenging par-4 finishing hole featuring a double dogleg. The course is home to the annual PGA Tour Academy and has hosted numerous professional events, including LPGA tournaments. Amenities include a full-service clubhouse with pro shop located in the resort’s Carriage House, practice facilities with driving range and putting green, club rentals, and professional instruction. The course offers preferred tee times for resort guests and features a golf cart GPS system for precise yardage and course management.

Additional Recreation Options

Saratoga Springs offers diverse recreation options beyond its pools and golf:

TENNIS AND SPORTS

• Two lighted tennis courts with complimentary equipment rental
• Full-size basketball court
• Volleyball court on the lawn near High Rock Spring Pool

FITNESS AND TRAILS

• 1.44-mile jogging trail connecting all resort sections
• Bicycle rentals for exploring the resort and Disney Springs pathways (Surrey bikes and standard options)
• Basketball court near Community Hall
• Additional walking/jogging paths throughout property

COMMUNITY HALL
Located near the Carriage House, offering:

• Video games and arcade
• Pool tables
• Board games and puzzles
• Arts and crafts activities
• Movie rentals
• Sports equipment checkout

ARCADE Win It In A Minute arcade features both classic and modern games, with regular tournaments and special events.

PLAYGROUNDS Multiple themed play areas including:

• Main playground near High Rock Spring Pool
• Smaller play areas near Paddock Pool and Grandstand quiet pool
• Carousel-themed play structure near The Carousel section

OUTDOOR GAMES Lawn games available throughout resort:

• Shuffleboard courts
• Horseshoes
• Chess/checkers tables with seating
• Bean bag toss near Community Hall

All equipment for these activities can be checked out at Community Hall or the resort’s main building.

Saratoga Springs Dining

The Turf Club Bar and Grill

This table-service restaurant captures the sophisticated atmosphere of a private clubhouse, offering American cuisine with a focus on steaks, fresh seafood, and seasonal specialties. The adjacent Turf Club Lounge provides a casual setting for drinks and light bites.

The Artist’s Palette

This quick-service marketplace combines a grab-and-go market with made-to-order items. The venue’s design reflects an artist’s studio, with palettes and paint tubes incorporated into the décor.

The Paddock Grill

Located near The Paddock Pool, this outdoor venue serves pool-side favorites including sandwiches, salads, and refreshing beverages.

On the Rocks Pool Bar

Situated near the High Rock Spring Pool, this bar offers cocktails, beer, wine, and light snacks in a casual atmosphere.

The Backstretch Pool Bar

Located near The Grandstand pool, this venue provides refreshments in a racing-themed setting.

Saratoga Springs Location and Transportation

Proximity to Disney Springs

One of the resort’s major advantages is its location adjacent to Disney Springs. Guests can choose between a scenic 10-15 minute walk along the waterfront path or a relaxing boat ride to access this entertainment, dining, and shopping district.

Disney Transportation Details

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort offers comprehensive transportation options to help guests navigate both the resort and the greater Walt Disney World property.

The Disney bus service provides dedicated transportation to all four theme parks, both water parks, and Disney Springs. Given the resort’s expansive layout, the internal bus route includes five strategic stops serving each section: beginning at The Grandstand, continuing to The Carousel, The Paddock, Congress Park, and finally reaching The Springs/Carriage House area. Each bus stop features digital displays showing real-time arrival information, making it easier for guests to plan their departures. Bus service begins 45 minutes before park opening and continues until two hours after park closing. During peak hours, guests typically experience wait times of 15-20 minutes, while off-peak periods may see slightly longer intervals of 20-30 minutes. All buses are air-conditioned, feature comfortable padded seating, and are fully accessible for wheelchairs and ECVs.

Water transportation offers a scenic alternative for reaching Disney Springs. The resort features two convenient boat docks: the main dock near the Carriage House and a second dock in the Congress Park area. Operating daily from 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM (weather permitting), thef free water taxi service provides a leisurely 15-20 minute journey across Lake Buena Vista. Boats depart every 20 minutes and include wheelchair accessibility. Guests will find covered waiting areas at both docks, providing shelter from sun or rain.

The bonus of staying at Saratoga Springs is that Disney Springs is within walking distance. To access Disney Springs (previously known as Downtown Disney) by foot, the resort offers two well-maintained walking paths to Disney Springs. The Congress Park path provides the quickest route, typically taking 10-12 minutes. This paved, well-lit pathway offers beautiful lake views and includes a security checkpoint at the Disney Springs entrance. It serves as the most direct route for guests staying in the Congress Park and The Springs sections. The alternative Sassagoula River path, while longer at 15-20 minutes, offers a more scenic journey. This route begins near the Carriage House, following the peaceful riverbank past the Treehouse Villas before connecting to the Congress Park path.

Both walking paths prioritize guest safety and comfort with consistent features throughout their length. Mile markers help guests track their progress, while safety lighting and security cameras provide peace of mind during evening walks. Emergency call boxes are positioned along the routes, and regular security patrols monitor the areas. For guest convenience, the paths include periodic benches for resting, water fountains for refreshment, and thoughtful landscaping that enhances the peaceful atmosphere of the walk.

Saratoga Springs Special Features and Hidden Gems

Disney Vacation Club Community

As a DVC resort, Saratoga Springs offers additional amenities for members while welcoming all Disney resort guests. The community atmosphere creates opportunities for longer stays and a more residential feel.

TreeHouse Villas

These unique accommodations deserve special mention. Elevated among the treetops, these octagonal villas offer a secluded retreat while maintaining easy access to resort amenities. Their distinctive design and peaceful setting make them one of Disney World’s most sought-after room categories.

Hidden Mickey Hunt

Throughout the resort, observant guests can spot Hidden Mickeys incorporated into the décor, architecture, and landscaping, adding an extra layer of Disney magic to the experience.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Stay at Saratoga Springs

Best Room Locations

• For Disney Springs access: Request Congress Park
• For main pool and dining proximity: Request The Springs
• For quiet atmosphere: Request The Carousel
• For transportation convenience: Request The Grandstand
• For pool access with fewer crowds: Request The Paddock

Time-Saving Strategies

• Use the internal bus system to navigate the resort’s expansive grounds
• Consider renting a bike for easier exploration
• Use the walking path to Disney Springs during peak transportation times
• Mobile order from Artist’s Palette during busy periods

Seasonal Considerations

• Summer months see higher pool usage; consider early morning or evening swims
• During food & wine festival, Congress Park rooms offer easy access to Epcot via Disney Springs
• Holiday decorations transform the resort with Victorian-era festive touches
• Spring brings beautiful blooms to the extensive gardens

Why Saratoga Springs

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa successfully marries the elegant history of its New York namesake with Disney’s signature attention to detail and guest service. Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, spa lover, Disney Springs regular, or family seeking spacious accommodation options, the resort offers something for everyone. Its unique position as both a relaxing retreat and convenient hub for Disney World activities makes it an excellent choice for guests seeking a more laid-back Disney vacation experience.

The resort’s expansive grounds, multiple pool options, and variety of accommodation types allow guests to customize their stay to their preferences, while the proximity to Disney Springs adds an extra layer of entertainment and dining options. While the size of the resort might initially seem daunting, the thoughtful layout and transportation options make it manageable and enjoyable to explore.

As Walt Disney World continues to evolve, Saratoga Springs maintains its position as a versatile resort option that combines historical charm with modern amenities. Whether staying in a cozy studio or an elevated Treehouse Villa, guests can expect a unique blend of Victorian elegance and Disney magic that creates lasting vacation memories.